DECISION MAKING

WHAT ARE YOUR VALUES?

It may seem like everybody’s “doing it,” but over half of teens in Spokane County aren’t having sex. “Am I ready for sex?” is a question that only you can answer, so take your time and talk things through with your partner if you’re thinking of taking this big step.

Being clear about your values before you decide to be sexually active will help you make a decision you can feel good about. Ask yourself these questions:

What do you think about the importance of sex in a romantic relationship? Should you be in love before having sex?

What are your moral views about sex? What do your parents think?

If you are religious, what does your religion say about sex?

Do your personal values match with your decision to have sex? If not, you’re probably not ready.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIPS?

Sex can be part of a healthy, committed relationship, but many intimate relationships don’t include sex. You and your partner should be on the same page before you have sex. If your partner won’t discuss it or tries to blow you off, then they’re not ready. You should be thinking and talking about the following:

Are you being pressured into having sex? You should take the time to make your own decision and a good partner should support you. If you feel like you aren’t getting the respect you deserve, you may want to rethink the relationship.

Have you talked about protection against disease and pregnancy? If you can’t talk to your partner about sex and its possible consequences, then you’re not ready. Do the research and decide on protection before things get too hot to handle. Remember that condoms are the only form of birth control that also reduces the risk of STDs.

How will sex affect your relationship? Sex changes a relationship forever. It can make things much more serious. There are also things to consider like pregnancy, parenthood and STDs. Are you and your partner ready to handle that? Sex can make people feel much closer to each other, but don’t make the mistake of thinking that sex will make a bad relationship better. Sex won’t make your partner love you if they don’t already. Sex won’t keep your partner from leaving you later.